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Resident raises safety and communication concerns about Easy Fiber, citing two gas strikes
Summary
During public comment, Mr. Alvarez told the Milton City Council that after a prior meeting where Easy Fiber said it would address utility work, two separate "gas strikes" occurred — closing Highway 161 on March 20 — and urged clearer communication and accountability.
Mr. Alvarez, a Milton resident, told the City Council during the public-comment period that he has seen rumors on social media about a possible gas strike and said the city has not communicated adequately with residents. He said Easy Fiber had previously told the council it would "fix these problems," but within a week there were two gas strikes — one in Alona and one in Milton — that shut down Highway 161 on March 20, disrupting emergency routes and local travel.
"It's no longer about like how they're working. It's the lack of empathy towards human life," Mr. Alvarez said, urging the council to provide clearer information and accountability about utility work and any safety incidents.
Council Member Poor and other members expressed concern and thanked Mr. Alvarez for bringing the matter forward. Council Member Poor recommended a check-in about Easy Fiber at the next meeting to review recent complaints and to discuss possible city options for holding the contractor accountable. Council Member Whan also emphasized fairness in how public comments are heard by the full council and requested follow-up so all members receive the same information.
The mayor and staff agreed to provide copies of an emailed document Mr. Alvarez referenced and to schedule a follow-up check-in with staff about Easy Fiber and any related safety reports.
